Applause for John Boehner's First Speech as Speaker of the House

By Elspeth Reeve

John
Boehner said he was humbled in his first speech as Speaker of the House
Wednesday, which was greeted by a lots of applause. Boehner said he would
restore trust to "the people's House," The New York Times' Michael D. Shear
reports, and "stand firm" for his party's principles. But despite his Republicans' solid victory in the midterm
elections, he also pledged to respect the minority party's right to "an
honest debate--a fair and open process."

He Didn't Overpromise, The Washington Post's Ezra Klein
writes. Most incoming speakers promise too much, but "Boehner promised
almost nothing at all. He certainly didn't set himself up as a foil to
President Obama, or anoint himself leader of a new conservative moment
in American politics. Rather, his speech had two themes: Humility, and
comity. ... It was, I think, as smart a speech as I've seen a politician
give -- in part because it was savvy about what it didn't say, which is
a rare virtue in Washington."

Refreshing, The National Review's Tevi Troy
writes. "Speaker John Boehner's (I love writing that) speech today hit
all of the right notes in focusing on humility and transparency, which
have been characteristics sorely lacking among recent congressional
leaders." But going forward, Troy writes, Boehner will also have to show
he's serious by "clamping down irresponsible rhetoric on the part of
some of his members" and addressing budget problems.

A Pro-Life Shout-Out? "[I]t was a nice touch when Boehner, who is a Catholic, recalled
the ashes of Ash Wednesday," The National Review's Charlotte Hays
notes, "which symbolize the transitory nature of
life and, by extension, of power. ... Boehner projected the sense that
he knows that the country is in trouble and that House members must
behave like adults in these serious times."

Boehner Shouldn't Stop Crying, The National Review's Marjorie Dannenfelser
urges. "I, for one, will start crying if he ever stops. It is a sign of
humility and sensitivity to what is moving because it is true."

A Civil, Boisterous Ceremony, Time's Jay Newton-Small
reports. "Both Boehner and Pelosi received standing ovations and Pelosi
passed Boehner a mock giant gavel, which produced chuckles from more
than a few members. It was a degree of decorum not often seen in the
last 'You lie!' Congress. If only it would last."